Pawan, Vice-Captain Class of 2024, is set to begin studying Chemical Physics at the University of Edinburgh next month. His passion for the sciences has been a constant throughout his school career.

Participation in ‘STEM in the Pipeline’, a challenge centred around the energy sector,  allowed Pawan to make connections within the industry and realised his ambition to pursue Chemical Physics as a degree, with the ultimate goal of entering the field of Nuclear Engineering. 

Speaking about how his teachers inspired him, Pawan shared: “My Chemistry teacher, Mrs Molyneux, was amazing at making Chemistry interesting and approachable. Mr Kirkwood and Mrs Carnegie both helped make Physics my favourite subject at school, which has inspired me to take Physics further at university. They always went above and beyond to not only teach the topic but also allow for discussions regarding general interest in Physics and building on my curiosity. 

“The Wood Foundation Centre for Science and Technology was a huge help for my projects and an extra ‘Thank You’ to the technicians in both Chemistry and Physics for helping make my experiment for my S6 project as straightforward as possible. 

“And lastly, Mr Pearson, for making my mornings funny and giving me guidance wherever possible. He also encouraged me to join the Choir, which was one of the biggest highlights of my year because it was so unlike everything else I did but yet just as fun.”

Mr Kirkwod, Teacher of Physics, commented: ”Pawan was always a pleasure to teach. His laid back demeanour belied a sharp intellect and an enthusiasm for learning that drove him to explore physics beyond the classroom. As a class helper in his final year of school, Pawan was a much loved feature amongst my first year class. He has always had a great way with people and I’m confident he’ll continue to succeed wherever he goes.” 

Mrs Carnegie, Teacher of Physics, added: “I was delighted to have him again in his 6th Year. His organisation, dedication and enthusiasm for learning always shone in the classroom. We are so lucky to have so many modern, practical resources in the Wood Centre, along with our dedicated technicians for each Science. This allows us to provide for so many successful AH pupils and Pawan is a great example of a young Scientist who took full advantage of all the opportunities available at RGC.”

During the 2023-24 exam period, Higher Biology, Chemistry and Physics averaged a 90% A-B pass rate. The vast majority of our pupils stay on for the sixth year experience at Robert Gordon’s, and the value of this shines through in their excellent results this year; 155 pupils sat Advanced Highers with 91.6% A-C and 72.2% A-B passes. The impressive average number of Advanced Highers achieved per S6 pupil is 2.31; 24 pupils achieved three As and two achieved four As.